Chatter in the Vestibule — Feast days

It is the month of Mary! Are you looking for ways to celebrate?

After all the excitement of Christmas, you’re kind of ready for things die down in January, aren’t you? Still, it doesn’t take long before you’re itching to do something special with your family again. Here are four simple ways you can celebrate a feast or observe the season this February.   Candlemas February 2, the Presentation of the Lord, is known as Candlemas. While the feast celebrates Jesus presented before God, it is also the day the Church blesses the candles that will be used through the year. The laity have long participated at home by placing a candle in...

If you travel to Italy during the Twelve Days of Christmas, especially as you get closer to the Epiphany on January 6th you will see a sight that is quite unique. Italy will suddenly transform itself something closer to an American Halloween than the Father Christmas we are used to at this time of year. There will be witches in the stores filled with candy and people dressed up for photo opportunities with costumed witches in the streets. This is a special witch named “La Befana.” According to Italian legend, as the Three Magi were traveling to visit the Baby...

In the weeks preceding this year's Feast Day, Our Lady's words to St. Juan Diego repeat in my heart, "Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, in the crossing of my arms? Do you need anything more?"